About

Close to Paignton is the long, sandy stretch of Goodrington Sands. With a Seaside Award, safe swimming conditions and loads of great activities, this family-friendly beach promises to keep the kids happy whatever the weather.

So what can you do at Goodrington Sands? The first thing that springs to mind is watersports! This a great place to swim, and there are a number of different hire options available, with pedalos, paddle boats and even windsurfing for beginners.

If you’re planning to explore the rock pools at low tide, don’t forget to visit the Reach Outdoors first. Here you can learn more about the English Riviera’s sea-life and Geopark through interactive displays. After arming yourself with information, you’ll know precisely what you’ve found lurking under the seaweed!

Read more on our Top 10 Beaches on The English RIviera page.

Hippocampe Beach Wheelchair – Information & Specifications

The Hippocampe is an all-terrain beach wheelchair designed to help people with limited mobility enjoy beaches, coastal paths and outdoor environments that would normally be difficult to access with a standard wheelchair.

Its large, low-pressure wheels allow it to travel over sand, shingle, grass and uneven ground, helping users get closer to the sea and enjoy the coastline more independently. The chair can also be used in shallow water, allowing users to experience the beach and sea environment with support from a companion.

Suitable Uses

The Hippocampe is suitable for:

✓ Accessing beaches and coastal areas
✓ Travelling across sand, shingle and uneven surfaces
✓ Getting closer to the water’s edge
✓ Supported entry into shallow water
✓ Outdoor activities where conventional wheelchairs may struggle
✓ Use by children and adults with mobility difficulties

The chair can be self-propelled by some users on suitable surfaces or pushed by an accompanying adult using the rear push handle.

Important Limitations

The Hippocampe is an all-terrain mobility aid, not a powered wheelchair or a flotation device.

Please be aware:

• It requires assistance from a suitable adult on many beach surfaces, particularly soft sand, slopes or uneven terrain.
• It is not designed for independent travel over long distances.
• Users must remain seated and secured correctly while the chair is moving.
• It should not be used in strong waves, currents or unsuitable sea conditions.
• The chair is designed for shallow water access only and must not be used as a boat or flotation aid.
• Users entering the sea should have appropriate support from a capable adult.
• Conditions on beaches can change quickly due to tides, weather and surf conditions.

Before use, users and carers should assess whether the beach conditions and environment are suitable for the individual using the chair.

Key Specifications

• Type: All-terrain beach and outdoor wheelchair
• Suitable for: Adults and children with mobility difficulties
• Weight: Approximately 14–17kg depending on model/options
• Maximum user weight: Approximately 110kg
• Seat Width: 42 cm
• Width with beach wheels: Approximately 100cm
• Frame: Corrosion-resistant materials suitable for coastal environments
• Wheels: Large double wheels designed to spread weight on softer surfaces such as sand

Before Booking / Using the Chair

To help us ensure the Hippocampe is suitable for your needs, please consider:

• The user’s height, weight and level of mobility
• Whether they require support transferring into and out of the chair
• Whether a suitable companion is available to assist
• The intended beach and expected conditions
• Whether the user is comfortable being close to or entering the sea

The team at Reach Outdoors will be happy to provide guidance on suitability and local beach conditions.

01803 524 950       07816 881 821                 www.reach-outdoors.com

What type of beach is Goodrington Sands in Paignton?

Goodrington Sands is a long sandy beach, with safe shallow waters - perfect for watersports and families.

Are dogs allowed on Goodrington Sands in Paignton?

Goodrington Sands is split into two sections. Dogs are allowed on the North Sands all year round, but banned during the summer on the South Sands. They must be on a lead on the promenade at all times.

Are there toilets Goodrington Sands in Paignton? 

Yes, there are toilets on Goodrington Sands, including disabled toilets.

Is Goodrington Sands in Paignton easy to access?

Access to Goodrington Sands is easy, with level areas throughout and a slipway to the beach. A beach wheelchair is available too.

Is there a cafe on Goodrington Sands in Paignton?

Yes, there are plenty of cafes on Goodrington Sands.

Is there parking at Goodrington Sands in Paignton?

Yes there are two pay and display car parks at Goodrington Sands.